The Navy will obtain half-a-dozen “drone ships” as part of a major shakeup of the nation’s maritime capability.

Some existing ships will be upgraded, 11 new frigates will built and 6 “crew-optional” vessels will be added.

The announcement comes less than a day after Defence Minister Richard Marles stated the delayed submarine construction program had blown out by $20 billion.

6PR and Nine Federal Politics Reporter Zac De Silva told Gary Adshead on 6PR Mornings an independent review has found Australia’s total number of navy warships needs to more-than double as tensions grow in our region.

Press PLAY to hear more on the story